Spacer device

ABSTRACT

A spacer device includes an elongate spacing member extending a longitudinal axis for securing to electrical transmission lines, and has a minimum thickness dm. At least one thickened portion having a thickness Tt and length dt is positioned intermediate along the spacing member to form at least two column lengths Lc separated by the at least one thickened portion. Each column length Lc has a portion with the minimum thickness dm. The thickness Tt and length dt of the at least one thickened portion can be at least two times the minimum thickness dm to form at least one end support for the at least two column lengths Lc, such the at least two column lengths Lc behave as separate Euler type columns for producing increased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation in Part application of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/008,112, filed Jan. 18, 2011, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/296,203, filed on Jan.19, 2010. The entire teachings of the above applications areincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Electrical transmission lines, cables or conductors can be subject togalloping during storms, which can cause damage to the transmission linesystem. If damage is extensive, repairs can be costly and timeconsuming.

SUMMARY

The present invention can provide a spacer device including an elongatespacing member extending along a longitudinal axis for securing toelectrical transmission lines, and can have a minimum thickness d_(m).At least one thickened portion having a thickness T_(t) and length d_(t)can be positioned intermediate along the spacing member to form at leasttwo column lengths L_(c) separated by the at least one thickenedportion. Each column length L_(c) can have a portion with the minimumthickness d_(m). The thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) of the at leastone thickened portion can be at least two times the minimum thicknessd_(m) to form at least one end support for the at least two columnlengths L_(c), such that the at least two column lengths L_(c) behave asseparate Euler type columns for producing increased Euler bucklingstrength with a minimal increase in weight.

In particular embodiments, the thickened portion can have a thicknessT_(t) that is at least two times the minimum thickness d_(m) of thespacing member, and a length d_(t) that is at least three times theminimum thickness d_(m). The spacing member can have a column length tominimum thickness L_(c)/d_(m) ratio of about 5 to 18, a thickenedportion thickness to spacing member minimum thickness T_(t)/d_(m) ratioof about 1.5 to 3, and a thickened portion length to spacing memberminimum thickness d_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about 2 to 5 for producingincreased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight. Insome embodiments, the L_(c)/d_(m) ratio can be about 6 to 7, theT_(t)/d_(m) ratio can be about 1.75 to 2.5, and the d_(t)/d_(m) ratiocan be about 2.5 to 3.5. The spacing member can be a rod having a lengthof about 1½ to 3 feet long, and having a minimum thickness d_(m) ofabout ⅜ to ¾ inches. The at least one thickened portion can have athickness T_(t) of about 1 to 2 inches, and a length d_(t) of about 1½to 2½ inches. The at least one thickened portion can be integrallyformed on the spacing member. At least two thickened portions can bespaced apart about 5 to 11 inches. The at least one thickened portioncan be cylindrical in shape and can have a central axis orthogonal tothe longitudinal axis of the spacing member. The at least one thickenedportion can have a diameter of about 1½ to 2½ inches. First and secondclamps can be secured to opposite ends of the spacing member forsecuring to respective electrical transmission lines. The clamps can becapable of rotating relative to the spacing member. The spacer devicecan be capable of spacing two electrical transmission lines about 30 to32 inches apart. The elongate spacing member can be a first spacingmember, and the spacer device can further include a second elongatespacing member secured to the first spacing member and can have at leasta third clamp secured to an end of the second spacing member forsecuring to at least another electrical transmission line.

The present invention can also provide a spacer device for electricaltransmission lines including an elongate spacing rod having a length ofabout 1½ to 3 feet long, and a nominal thickness of about ⅜ to ¾ inches.A series of spaced apart thickened portions can be integrally formed onthe spacing rod. The thickened portions can be at least two timesthicker than the nominal thickness of the spacing rod and spaced about 5to 8 inches apart for producing increased Euler buckling strength with aminimal increase in weight.

The present invention can also provide a spacer device including anelongate spacing rod extending along a longitudinal axis for securing toelectrical transmission lines, and having a minimum diameter d_(m). Atleast one thickened portion can be positioned intermediate along thespacing rod to form at least two column lengths L_(c) separated by theat least one thickened portion. The at least one thickened portion canbe cylindrically shaped with a central axis orthogonal to thelongitudinal axis of the spacing rod, and can have a diameter d_(t) andthickness T_(t) large enough to form at least one end support for the atleast two column lengths L_(c), such that the at least two columnlengths L_(c) behave as separate Euler type columns for producingincreased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight.

The present invention can also provide a spreading device for spreadingcables apart including a first spreading arm having a proximal end and adistal end, and a second spreading arm having a proximal end and adistal end. The distal ends of the first and second spreading arms canbe configured for engaging respective cables. The proximal ends of thefirst and second spreading arms can be pivotally connected together by apivot point. The pivot point can be configured to permit pivoting of thefirst and second arms relative to each other between an acute angle andjust beyond 180°, for spreading the respective cables apart and lockingin a spread position.

In particular embodiments, a handle can be pivotally connected to thepivot point for moving the first and second spreading arms between theacute angle and just beyond 180°. The pivot point can include amechanical stop for preventing rotation of the first and secondspreading arms past just beyond 180°.

The present invention can also provide a spacer damper device forelectrical transmission lines including two polymeric sleeves, eachabout 4 to 5 feet long covering a portion of two spaced aparttransmission line cables. Two helical armor rods, each about 6 to 7 feetlong can be wrapped around a polymeric sleeve. Ends of the armor rodscan be wrapped around the cables. A spacing member can have two clamps,each for clamping over a cable at a region to clamp over an armor rodand polymeric sleeve, thereby forming a constrained viscoelastic layerwhere the polymeric sleeve deforms in shear when the cable bendsunderneath the clamp, thereby providing damping.

The present invention can also provide a damper device for electricaltransmission lines including a polymeric sleeve covering a portion of atransmission line cable. A rod can be wrapped around the polymericsleeve. Ends of the rod can be wrapped around the cable. A clamp can beclamped over the rod and polymeric sleeve, thereby forming a constrainedviscoelastic layer where the polymeric sleeve deforms in shear when thecable bends underneath the clamp, thereby providing damping.

In particular embodiments, the polymeric sleeve can be about 4 to 5 feetlong, and the rod can be a helical armor rod about 6 to 7 feet long. Theclamp can be a first clamp and the transmission line cable can be afirst transmission line cable. The damper device can further include aspacing member to which the first clamp is mounted, and a second clampmounted to the spacing member for clamping to a second transmission linecable. In some embodiments, the clamp can be mounted to a memberextending from a transmission tower.

The present invention can also provide a method of spacing twoelectrical transmission lines with a spacer device including securing anelongate spacing member to the two electrical transmission lines. Theelongate spacing member can extend along a longitudinal axis, and canhave a minimum thickness d_(m). At least one thickened portion having athickness T_(t) and length d_(t) can be positioned intermediate alongthe spacing member to form at least two column lengths L_(c) separatedby the at least one thickened portion. Each column length L_(c) can havea portion with a minimum thickness d_(m). The thickness T_(t) and lengthd_(t) of the at least one thickened portion can be at least two timesthe minimum thickness d_(m) to form at least one end support for the atleast two column lengths L_(c), such that the at least two columnlengths L_(c) behave as separate Euler type columns for producingincreased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight.

In particular embodiments, the thickened portion can have a thicknessT_(t) that is at least two times the minimum thickness d_(m) of thespacing member, and a length d_(t) that is at least three times theminimum thickness d_(m). The spacing member can have a column length tominimum thickness L_(c)/d_(m) ratio of about 5 to 18, a thickenedportion thickness to spacing member minimum thickness T_(t)/d_(m) ratioof about 1.5 to 3, and a thickened portion length to spacing memberminimum thickness d_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about 2 to 5 for producingincreased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight. Insome embodiments, the L_(c)/d_(m) ratio can be about 6 to 7, theT_(t)/d_(m) ratio can be about 1.75 to 2.5 and the d_(t)/d_(m) ratio canbe about 2.5 to 3.5. The spacing member can be a rod with a length ofabout 1½ to 3 feet long, and a minimum thickness d_(m) of about ⅜ to ¾inches. The at least one thickened portion can have a thickness T_(t) ofabout 1 to 2 inches, and a length d_(t) of about 1½ to 2½ inches. The atleast one thickened portion can be integrally formed on the spacingmember. At least two thickened portions can be spaced apart about 5 to11 inches. The at least one thickened portion can be cylindrical inshape, and with a central axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis ofthe spacing member. The at least one thickened portion can have adiameter of about 1½ to 2½ inches. First and second clamps that are onopposite ends of the spacing member can be secured to respectiveelectrical transmission lines. The clamps can be allowed to rotaterelative to the spacing member. The two electrical transmission linescan be spaced about 30 to 32 inches apart. The elongate spacing membercan be a first spacing member, and the spacer device can further includea second elongate spacing member secured to the first spacing member andcan have at least a third clamp secured to an end of the second spacingmember for securing to at least another electrical transmission line.

The present invention can also provide a method of spacing twoelectrical transmission lines with a spacer device including securing anelongate spacing rod to the two electrical transmission lines. Theelongate spacing rod can have a length of about 1½ to 3 feet long, and anominal thickness of about ⅜ to ¾ inches. A series of spaced apartthickened portions can be integrally formed on the spacing rod. Thethickened portions can be at least two times thicker than the nominalthickness of the spacing rod and spaced of about 5 to 8 inches apart forproducing increased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase inweight.

The present invention can also provide a method of spacing twoelectrical transmission lines with a spacer device including securing anelongate spacing rod to the two electrical transmission lines. Theelongate spacing rod can extend along a longitudinal axis and have aminimum diameter d_(m). At least one thickened portion can be positionedintermediate along the spacing rod to form at least two column lengthsL_(c) separated by the at least one thickened portion. The at least onethickened portion can be cylindrically shaped with a central axisorthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the spacing rod, and can have adiameter d_(t) and thickness T_(t) large enough to form at least one endsupport for the at least two column lengths L_(c), such that the atleast two column lengths L_(c) behave as separate Euler type columns forproducing increased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase inweight.

The present invention can also provide a method of spreading two cablesapart including providing a spreading device with first and secondspreading arms each having proximal and distal ends. The distal ends ofthe first and second spreading arms can engage respective cables. Theproximal ends of the first and second spreading arms can be pivotallyconnected together by a pivot point. The pivot point can be configuredto permit pivoting of the first and second arms relative to each other.The arms can be pivoted from an acute angle to just beyond 180°, forspreading the respective cables apart and locking in a spread position.

In particular embodiments, the first and second spreading arms can bemoved between the acute angle and just beyond 180° with a handlepivotably connected to the pivot point. The first and second spreadingarms can be prevented from rotating past just beyond 180° with amechanical stop included with the pivot point. The two cables can be twoelectrical transmission lines, and can be spread from an initialdistance of about 18 inches to a distance of about 30 to 32 inches. Aspacing device can be secured to the two electrical transmission linesfor maintaining the distance of about 30 to 32 inches.

The present invention can also provide a method of damping electricaltransmission lines including covering two spaced apart transmission linecables with two polymeric sleeves, each about 4 to 5 feet long coveringa portion of the two spaced apart transmission line cables. Two helicalarmor rods, each about 6 to 7 feet long can be wrapped around apolymeric sleeve. Ends of the armor rods can be wrapped around thecables. A spacing member can be secured to the two transmission linecables. The spacing member can have two clamps, each for clamping over acable at a region to clamp over an armor rod and polymeric sleeve,thereby forming a constrained viscoelastic layer where the polymericsleeve deforms in shear when the cable bends underneath the clamp,thereby providing damping.

The present invention can also provide a method of damping an electricaltransmission line including covering a portion of an electricaltransmission line cable with a polymeric sleeve. A rod can be wrappedaround the polymeric sleeve. Ends of the rod can be wrapped around thecable. A clamp can be secured over the rod and polymeric sleeve, therebyforming a constrained viscoelastic layer where the polymeric sleevedeforms in shear when the cable bends underneath the clamp, therebyproviding damping.

In particular embodiments, the polymeric sleeve can be about 4 to 5 feetlong, and the rod can be a helical armor rod about 6 to 7 feet long. Theclamp can be a first clamp and the transmission line cable can be afirst transmission line cable. A spacing member can be included to whichthe first clamp is mounted, and a second clamp mounted to the spacingmember for clamping to a second transmission line cable. In someembodiments, the clamp can be mounted to a member extending from atransmission tower.

The present invention can also provide a spacer device including anelongate spacing member extending along a longitudinal axis for securingto electrical transmission lines, and having a minimum thickness d_(m).At least one thickened portion having a thickness T_(t) and length d_(t)can be positioned intermediate along the spacing member to form at leasttwo column lengths L_(c) separated by the at least one thickenedportion. Each column length L_(c) can have a portion with the minimumthickness d_(m). The thickness T_(t) and the length d_(t) of the atleast one thickened portion can be at least two times the minimumthickness d_(m) to form at least one end support for the at least twocolumn lengths L_(c) such that the at least two column lengths L_(c)behave as separate Euler type columns for producing increased Eulerbuckling strength with a minimal increase in weight. First and secondclamps can be rotatably secured to opposite ends of the spacing memberfor securing to respective electrical transmission lines.

In particular embodiments, the spacing member can include first andsecond end portions at opposite ends to which the first and secondclamps can be rotatably secured about respective first and second clamprotation axes that are transverse to the longitudinal axis of thespacing member. Each end portion can have a pair of clamp stopstructures for engaging clamp surfaces of a respective clamp and limitrotation of the respective clamp between the clamp stop structures. Theclamp stop structures can include elongate flat surfaces parallel to andon opposite sides of the longitudinal axis of the spacing memberextending wider than the column lengths. The elongate flat surfaces ofthe clamp stop structures of each end portion can extend parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the spacing member towards each other and inwardrelative to the clamp rotation axes. The clamp stop structures can limitrotation of the clamps to about +/−110° relative to the longitudinalaxis of the spacing member. The thickened portion can have a thicknessof T_(t) that is at least two times the minimum thickness d_(m) of thespacing member, and a length d_(t) that is at least three times theminimum thickness d_(m). The spacing member can have a column length toa minimum thickness L_(c)/d_(m) ratio of about 5 to 18, a thickenedportion thickness to spacing member minimum thickness T_(t)/d_(m), ratioof about 1.5 to 3, and thickened portion length to spacing memberminimum thickness d_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about 2 to 5 for producingincreased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight. Theat least one thickened portion can be integrally formed on the spacingmember. The at least one thickened portion can be cylindrical shaped andcan have a central axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of thespacing member.

The present invention can also provide a spacer device including anelongate spacing member having at least one column length extendingalong a longitudinal axis.

The spacing member can have first and second end portions at oppositeends. First and second clamps can be rotatably secured to respectivefirst and second end portions of the spacing member for securing torespective electrical transmission lines. The first and second clampscan be rotatably secured about respective first and second clamprotation axes that are transverse to the longitudinal axis of spacingmember. Each end portion of the spacing member can have clamp stopstructures that include elongate flat surfaces extending parallel to andon opposite sides of the longitudinal axis of the spacing member widerthan the at least one column length towards each other and inwardrelative to the clamp rotation axes. The clamps can have opposed outersurfaces for engaging the clamp stop structures for limiting rotation ofthe clamps between the clamp stop structures to about +/−110° relativeto the longitudinal axis of the spacing member.

The present invention can also provide a method of spacing twoelectrical transmission lines with a spacer device. An elongate spacingmember can be secured to the two electrical transmission lines withfirst and second clamps that are rotatably secured to opposite ends ofthe spacing member. The elongate spacing member can extend along alongitudinal axis and can have a minimum thickness d_(m). At least onethickened portion having a thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) can bepositioned intermediate along the spacing member to form at least twocolumn lengths L_(c) separated by the at least one thickened portion.Each column length L_(c) can have a portion with the minimum thicknessd_(m). The thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) of the at least onethickened portion can be at least two times the minimum thickness d_(m)to form at least one end support for the at least two column lengthsL_(c), such that the at least two column lengths L_(c) behave asseparate Euler type columns for producing increased Euler bucklingstrength with a minimal increase in weight.

In particular embodiments, the spacing member can be provided with firstand second end portions at opposite ends to which the first and secondclamps can be rotatably secured about respective first and second clamprotation axes that are transverse to the longitudinal axis of spacingmember. Rotation of the first and second clamps can be limited between apair of clamp stop structures on each end portion. The clamp stopstructures can engage clamp surfaces of a respective clamp. The clampstop structures can be provided with elongate flat surfaces parallel toand on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis of the spacing memberextending wider than the column lengths. The elongate flat surfaces ofthe clamp stop structures can extend parallel to the longitudinal axisof the spacing member towards each other and inward relative to theclamp rotation axes. Rotation of the clamps can be limited with theclamp stop structures to about +/−110° relative to the longitudinal axisof the spacing member. The thickened portion can be provided with athickness T_(t) that is at least two times the minimum thickness d_(m)of the spacing member, and a length d_(t) that is at least three timesthe minimum thickness d_(m). The spacing member can be provided with acolumn length to minimum thickness L_(c)/d_(m) ratio of about 5 to 18, athickened portion thickness to spacing member minimum thicknessT_(t)/d_(m) ratio about 1.5 to 3, and a thickened portion length tospacing member minimum thickness d_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about 2 to 5 forproducing increased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase inweight. The at least one thickened portion can be integrally formed onthe spacing member. The at least one thickened portion can have acylindrical shape with a central axis orthogonal to the longitudinalaxis of spacing member.

The present invention can also provide a method of spacing twoelectrical transmission lines with a spacer device including providingan elongate spacing member having at least one column length extendingalong a longitudinal axis. The spacing member can have first and secondend portions at opposite ends. First and second clamps can be secured torespective electrical transmission lines. The first and second clampscan be rotatably secured to respective first and second end portions ofthe spacing member about respective first and second clamp rotation axesthat are transverse to the longitudinal axis of the spacing member. Eachend portion of the spacing member can have clamp stop structuresincluding elongate flat surfaces extending parallel to and on oppositesides of the longitudinal axis of the spacing member wider than the atleast one column length towards each other and inward relative to theclamp rotation axes. Rotation of the clamps can be limited between theclamp stop structures to about +/−110° relative to the longitudinal axisof the spacing member. The clamps can have opposed outer surfaces forengaging the clamp stop structures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing will be apparent from the following more particulardescription of example embodiments of the invention, as illustrated inthe accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer tothe same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a top view on an embodiment of a spacer device in the presentinvention.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are side views of the spacer device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are top and side views of one end of the spacer device ofFIG. 1, showing an embodiment of a rotatable clamp.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a clamp in an openposition.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a spacer rod.

FIG. 8A is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a spacer rod.

FIG. 8B is a schematic drawing of a conductor span which has a series ofspacer devices secured thereto.

FIG. 8C is a perspective view of an embodiment of a clamp having aseries of loose washers.

FIG. 8D is a perspective view of another embodiment of a clamp having aseries of loose washers.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a spacer device inthe present invention.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the spacer device of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the central hub joint of the spacer device ofFIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a top view of a portion of another embodiment of a spacerdevice in the present invention.

FIG. 13A is a side view of the portion of the spacer device of FIG. 12.

FIG. 13B is a schematic drawing of a clamp extending from an insulatormounted to a tower, and clamping an armor rod polymeric sleeve sandwicharound a conductor.

FIG. 14 is a side view of an embodiment of a spreading tool in thepresent invention, positioned for spreading two conductors.

FIG. 15 is a side view of the spreading tool of FIG. 14 after spreadingthe conductors apart.

FIG. 16 is a top view of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged top view of the hub portion.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the hub portion showing an embodiment ofa mechanical stop.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a spacer devicein the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a portion of the spacer device of FIG.19.

FIG. 21 is a side view of an embodiment of a spacer rod for the spacerdevice of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a side view of another embodiment of the spacer device in thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A description of example embodiments of the invention follows.

FIGS. 1-8A depict an embodiment of a spacer device 10 in the presentinvention which can be secured to lines, cables or conductors 18extending along axes 19, such as electrical transmission lines, cablesor conductors, and can operate as a spacer twister device and/or aspacer damper device. Spacer device 10 can space the conductors 18 apartfrom each other, can dampen vibrations, and can reduce or preventgalloping of the cables or conductors 18 during storms. The spacerdevice 10 can have an elongated spacing or spacer member or rod 12extending along a longitudinal axis 17 with rotatable clamps 14 atopposite ends, which can pivot about pivot points or axes 14 a. In somesituations, the clamps 14 can be fixed, if desired. Rotation of theclamps 14 can allow twisting of the conductors 18 which can change oralter aerodynamic lift characteristics of the conductors 18 in heavywinds, and can reduce or prevent galloping, as well as dampenvibrations. The spacer rod 12 can have a series of spaced apartthickened knobs, bulges, protuberances, members, or portions 16 alongits length. The thickened portions 16 can increase the stiffness andbuckling strength of the spacer rod 12 for resisting compressivebuckling forces F, and Euler type buckling, while minimizing the nominalor minimal thickness (or diameter), the weight, and the cost of thespacer rod 12.

The thickened portions 16 can be relatively short, squat or flattenedround, or curved bulges that can be cylindrical, puck, or disc shaped,with their central axes 21 transverse, orthogonal or at a right angle tothe spacer rod 12 and axis 17. The thickened portions 16 can have around or curved outer diameter or perimeter surface 27, and flat endsurfaces 25 on opposite axial ends (FIGS. 3 and 4). The flat endsurfaces 25 can be parallel to each other and axis 17, and transverse ororthogonal or at right angles to axes 21. The thickened portions 16 canbe formed by casting, and can be cast at the same time integrallytogether with the spacer rod 12, for example, out of aluminum. The useof aluminum for spacer rod 12 and clamps 14 can minimize the weight.Casting the thickened portions 16 integrally together with the spacerrod 12 can save manufacturing time. In addition, less material is usedthan if the spacer rod 12 had a constant or continuous diameter that islarge enough to withstand the desired buckling force F. Using lessmaterial can decrease the weight and the cost of the spacer device 10.

By positioning the thickened portions 16 at intermediate locations alongthe spacer rod 12, the intermediate thickened portions 16 can form twoor more short spaced apart Euler column lengths 12 a along axis 17,having the nominal or minimum thickness or diameter of the spacer rod12, which are separated from each other by the thickened portions 16.The thickened portions 16 can be made long and large enough not to bendthemselves, and to act as fixed end supports for the Euler columnlengths 12 a of the spacer rod 12. Consequently, each shortened columnlength 12 a can resist higher compressive Euler buckling forces than thespacer rod 12 could resist if the thickened portions 16 were notpresent. Euler buckling forces are typically compressive forces actingon a column at the ends of the column in the direction of or along thelongitudinal axis, which if large enough, can cause buckling of thecolumn. A column subjected to such forces can be described or designatedas a Euler column. The strength of a given Euler column is related tothe square of the column length. For example, if a given Euler column isshortened by a factor of two by a thickened portion 16, the column canbe increased in strength by a factor of four. The column lengths 12 atypically have a round cross section which can provide uniform strengthin all radial directions, but alternatively can have other crosssectional shapes, such as square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal,polygonal, oval, complex curves, etc.

The use of the thickened portions 16 can allow the nominal or minimumthickness or diameter of the spacer rod 12 to be made smaller than ifthe spacer rod had a constant diameter large enough to withstand thedesired buckling force F, thereby minimizing the weight. In addition, byusing thickened portions 16 that are round or cylindrical in shape, withthe central axis 21 transverse, orthogonal or at a right angle to thespacer rod 12 and axis 17, the thickened portions 16 can have aconfiguration that is large enough, and long enough in the direction ofaxis 17 to act as fixed end supports to form a series of Euler typecolumns extending along axis 17 that are separated from each other,while also minimizing weight and material. The cylindrical shape withflat opposed surfaces 25 minimizes weight on the opposite axial endsalong axis 21, and the curved outer perimeter surface 27 maximizes thelength of the thickened portion 16 between the column lengths 12 a inthe direction of axis 17 while also minimizing weight. The curved outerperimeter surface 27 extends the length of the cylindrical thickenedportion 16 along the junction with the column lengths 12 a, whileminimizing material and weight at radially outward locations away fromthe spacer rod 12. The length of the thickened portion 16 if too short,might not sufficiently act as an end support and might not providesufficient strength. In addition, the thickened portions 16 can alsohave a central hole 16 a (FIG. 8A) to further minimize weight.Minimizing weight is desirable for use on electrical transmission lines,cables or conductors.

The clamps 14 can include two opposed jaws 13 having hub portions 23,that can be rotatably connected to each other about axis 14 a onopposite sides of end portions 16 b of spacer rod 12, by bolts 20,washers 24 and nuts 22 (FIGS. 3-6). The end portions 16 b can begenerally cylindrical or disc shaped and can have central axis 21similar to thickened portions 16. The end portions 16 b can form endsupports for the adjacent column lengths 12 a, alone or in combinationwith the clamps 14 and can be thinner than thickened portions 16 ifneeded for positioning or securing between hub portions 23. The endportions 16 b can have hole 16 a to allow bolts 20 to pass through. Thejaws 13 can have contoured, curved or rounded jaw portions 13 a forgripping and clamping a conductor 18 when bolts 20 on axis 15 of clamp14, and nuts 22 are tightened to bring jaws 13 towards each other. Thebolts 20 along axes 14 a can be tightened to lock clamps 14 in a fixedpositioned 14 a relative to spacer rod 12, or set, or replaced with apin to allow rotation about axes 14 a of the clamps 14 relative tospacer rod 12. Nuts 22 can be lock nuts to prevent loosening. Washers 24can be positioned on opposite sides of hub portions 23 and end portions16 b to rattle and absorb or dissipate vibrational energy. Selectedwashers 24 can be included that are neoprene or rubber washers to reducenoise. Additional washers 24 can be added as needed to absorb vibration,and bolt 20 can be lengthened accordingly. Further washers 24 can alsobe added loosely to the thickened portions 16 with bolts through holes16 a in the embodiment of the spacer rod 12 seen in FIG. 8A, forabsorbing or dissipating vibration. Resilient or flexible, viscoelastic,polymeric, neoprene or rubber members, sheaths sleeves or layers 26 canbe positioned over each conductor 18 at the locations at which the clamp14 clamps the conductor 18 and become sandwiched between the clamp 14and the conductor 18. The addition of a rubber sleeve 26 can be used tocontrol high frequency vibration. Although one embodiment of clamps 14is shown in the drawings, other suitable clamps can be employed. Inaddition, clamp 14 can be, or can be similar to those disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 6,008,453, issued Dec. 28, 1999, the contents of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In some embodiments, the spacer rod 12 can be about 1½ or 2 to 3 feetlong, and about ⅜ to ¾ inches in nominal or minimum thickness ordiameter d_(m) (FIG. 3). The thickened portions 16 can have a length ordiameter d_(t) of about 1½ or 2 to 2½ inches, can have a thickness T_(t)of about ¾ or 1 to 2 inches thick, and can be spaced apart about 5 or 6to 8 inches, and in some cases up to 9 to 11 inches. In someembodiments, the spacer rod 12 can have two thickened end portions 16 bat opposite ends, and three intermediate thickened portions 16therebetween to form four separated Euler column lengths 12 a positionedalong axis 17 in series or sequence. The column lengths 12 a of thespacer rod 12 can have a length L_(c) ranging from about 3 to 9 incheslong. For a length, distance or span S of the spacer rod 12 between thecenters of two thickened portions 16 or end portions 16 b, in someembodiments, about 50% or 55% to 80% of the length of the span S can bethe column length 12 a having the nominal thickness or diameter d_(m),and about 20% to 45% or 50% of the length of the span S can be thethickened portions 16 or end portions 16 b. The thickened portions 16can be about ⅝ to 1¼ or 2⅛ inches thicker than spacer rod 12 (or about 2to 4 times thicker). The thickened portions 16 can have a thicknessT_(t) along axis 21 orthogonal to axis 17 that is at least about 2 timesthe thickness or diameter d_(m) of the spacer rod 12, and a length ordiameter d_(t) in the direction of axis 17 that is also at least twotimes the thickness or diameter d_(m), and can be at least three timesthe thickness or diameter d_(m), in order to form Euler type endsupports. The thickness or diameter d_(t) of the thickened portions 16can also be at least two or three times the thickness or diameter d_(m)in the radial direction orthogonal to both axes 17 and 21, at theradially outward most point on the outer perimeter surface 27. Thethickened portions 16 can have an opening 16 a if desired (FIG. 8A). Inother embodiments, the thickened portions 16 can have other suitableshapes and configurations, and can be separately manufactured pieceswhich are secured to the spacer rod 12. The number and spacing ofthickened portions 16 can vary, as well as the nominal thickness ordiameter d_(m) of the spacer rod 12.

The column lengths 12 a can have a column length L_(c) to nominal orminimum diameter or thickness d_(m) ratio L_(c)/d_(m) of about 5 to 18,often about 5 to 12, or 5 to 8. The thickened portion 16 thickness T_(t)and the column length 12 a thickness or diameter d_(m) can have a ratioT_(t)/d_(m) of about 1.5 to 3, and often about 1.75 to 2.5. Thethickened portion 16 length or diameter d_(t) and the column length 12 athickness or diameter d_(m), can have a ratio d_(t)/d_(m) of about 2 to5 and often about 2.5 to 3.5. This can help provide a spacer rod 12having maximum strength against Euler type buckling with a minimumweight.

In one embodiment, spacer device 10 can have a spacer rod 12 which isabout 24 inches long between the axes 21 of the two end portions 16 b,which when clamps 14 are attached that have a distance of about 3 to 4inches between axis 14 a and jaw portions 13 a, can space conductors 18apart from each other about 30 to 32 inches. The spacer rod 12 can havethree intermediate thickened portions 16 spaced apart from each otherand the end portions 16 b by a distance or span S of about 6 inchesbetween center axes 21 to form four Euler column lengths 12 a in seriesseparated from each other along axis 17. The column lengths 12 a canhave a nominal or minimum diameter d_(m) of about ⅝ inches and a lengthL_(c) of about 4 inches. The thickened portions 16 can have a length ordiameter d_(t) of about 2 inches and a thickness T_(t) of about 1¼inches. The end portions 16 b can have a diameter of about 2 inches anda thickness of about 0.68 or 11/16 inches. The holes 16 a can be about ⅝inches in diameter. This can provide a L_(c)/d_(m) ratio of about 6 to7, such as about 6.4, a t_(t)/d_(m), ratio of about 2, and ad_(t)/d_(m), ratio of about 3.2. Although column lengths 12 a are shownto have a diameter with a smooth outer surface, it is understood thatthe outer surface can have corrugations or irregularities.

In some embodiments, the maximum allowed stress on an aluminum columnlength 12 a is about 10,000 lb/in². For a column length 12 a having aminimum diameter d_(m) of about ½ inch, maximum loads for various columnlengths L_(c), can be as follows: for L_(c) of 6 inches about 1848 lbs,for L_(c) of seven inches about 1807 lbs, for L_(c) of 8 inches about1759 lbs, and for L_(c) of 9 inches about 1705 lbs. For a column length12 a having about a 0.7 inch diameter, the following maximum loads forvarious column lengths L_(c) can be as follows: for L_(c) of 6 inches,about 3733 lbs, for L_(c) of 7 inches about 3692 lbs, for L_(c) of 8inches about 3644 lbs, and for L_(c) of 9 inches about 3590 lbs. Thesespacer rods 12 can be heat treated. In compressive testing where thespacer rod 12 is subjected to a compressive force exerted at the endportions 16 b via bolts through holes 16 a (for example ⅝ diameterbolts), from a compressive test machine, embodiments of the spacer rod12 when heat treated can buckle at about 2200 lbs, and at about 2440 lbsif the bolts through the end portions 16 b are tightened to about 100ft/lbs to prevent rotation. Embodiments of the spacer rod 12 that arenot heat treated can buckle at about 3130 lbs, and at about 3780 lbs ifthe bolts through the end portions are tightened to about 100 ft/lbs.

In some embodiments, when the spacer device 10 is cast from aluminum,the spacer rod 12 can weigh about 21 lbs and the clamps 14 about 3 lbseach. The bolts 20 and nuts 22 can be about 2 lbs for each set. This canprovide spacer device 10 with a light weight to allow faster and easierinstallation on an electrical transmission line from a helicopter.

In some embodiments, for a 600 foot span, 3 spacer devices 10 can besecured to and spaced along the span about 200 feet from each other.Referring to FIG. 8B, the spacer devices 10 on the ends of the span nearthe towers or poles 60 can have clamps 14 which are tightened to preventrotation of the clamps 14 relative to the spacer rod 12 and the centerspacer device 10 can have clamps 14 that are able to rotate relative tothe spacer rod 12 to twist the conductors 18 to control gallop. Thecenter spacer device 10 can include extra loose washers 24 forcontrolling or dissipating vibration. The end spacer devices 10 do nothave to include extra loose washers 24, FIG. 8C depicts a clamp 14including extra loose washers 24. In some embodiments, the clamp 14 canrange from about 15/16 inches to 1 7/16 inches in steps of 1/16 inch.The width of the gripping portion can be about 3½ inches, FIG. 8Ddepicts another clamp 70 having a series of loose washers 24 and coronadonuts 72 to shield the nut 22 and head of bolt 20 against corona. Someembodiments can dissipate frequencies from 5 HZ to 50 HZ. In someembodiments, for a span of conductors 18 that is about 1200 feet on anelectrical transmission line, 7 spacer devices 10 can be secured to theconductors 18 and spaced apart on the span to reduce or preventgalloping. In such a span, two spacer devices 10 near the center canhave rotating clamps 14 with loose washers 24.

Referring to FIGS. 9-11, two spacer devices 10 can be joined together attheir respective central or middle thickened portions 16 along a commoncentral axis 28 by a bolt 20, washers 24 and nut 22, to form a quadspacer device 30. This can be used to clamp, space and dampen fourconductors 18 in a quad bundle. Referring to FIG. 10, one spacer device10 is shown horizontally oriented, and the other or second spacer device10 is shown vertically oriented, but it is understood that otherorientations are also envisioned. Although FIG. 10 shows two spacerdevices 10 joined together of equal length, in some embodiments, onespacer device 10 can have a length for spacing two conductors 18 apartfrom each other about 30 to 32 inches, for example, in the horizontaldirection and the second spacer device can have a length for spacing twoconductors 18 apart from each other about 18 inches, for example, in thevertical direction. In other embodiments, three spacer devices 10 can bejoined together to clamp, space and dampen a bundle of six conductors18. Furthermore, a bundle of three conductors 18 can be clamped, spacedor dampened using either two spacer devices 10 joined together, or witha truncated spacer rod 12 joined to spacer device 10. The modularability of multiple spacer devices 10 to be joined together allowsspacer devices to be formed to space different conductor bundles havingvarying numbers of conductors 18.

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13A, in some embodiments, the region of thecable or conductor 18 at which a spacer device 10 is secured by clamp 14can have a resilient or flexible, viscoelastic, polymeric, neoprene, orrubber sheath, sleeve or layer 26 covering the conductor 18. The sleeve26 can be covered by a metallic covering such as a series of members orrods, for example, armor rods 64, which can be cylindrical or have othersuitable cross sectional shapes. The clamp 14 is clamped over the sleeve26 and armor rod 64 sandwich. The sleeve 26 and armor rod 64 sandwichcan create a vibration damper where energy can be dissipated in theconstrained viscoelastic layer to control high frequency vibrations. Insome embodiments, the sleeve 26 can be about ⅛ inch thick, have adurometer rating of about 40, can be about 4 to 5 feet long with alongitudinal slit or split to allow installment, and the armor rods 64can be about 6 to 7 feet long, where the ends of the armor rods 64 canbe brought back into contact with the conductor 18, such as by wrappingthe individual rods around the conductor 18. The armor rods 64 can bemetallic and can be formed of metal strands that are formed in a twistedor helical configuration. The armor rods 64 used can be those that arecommonly commercially available. In some embodiments, 15 armor rods 64can cover or be wrapped around the sleeve 26. The armor rods 64 canmaintain pressure on the sleeve 26 and can have some flexibility orresiliency to deform for absorbing vibration or galloping. The length ofthe sleeve 26 and armor rod 64 sandwich can dampen bending stresses onthe conductor 18 near the clamps 14. The sleeve 26 can deform in shearwhen the conductor 18 bends underneath the clamp 14, constituting a lossof energy in each cycle of vibration. In some embodiments, the sleeve 26and armor rods 64 can be used with other damping or spacer dampingdevices or clamps. In other embodiments, the sleeve 26 and armor rods 64can be used with other suitable spacer devices, or with a clamp 14 orother suitable clamp that is not attached to or part of a spacer device.Clamping armor rods 64 and sleeves 26 around cables or conductors 18with a clamp can in itself be used as a damping device. Furthermore, thearmor rods 64 and sleeves 26 can have other configurations anddimensions as desired.

Referring to FIG. 13B, in another embodiment, the armor rod 64 andsleeve 26 sandwich can be clamped over a conductor 18 by a clamp 14mounted to a member 62 extending from a transmission tower or pole 60.The clamped armor rod 64 and sleeve 26 configuration can be used tocontrol high frequency vibration as well as galloping. The clamp 14 canbe rigidly or rotatably mounted to the member 62 as desired. In someembodiments, the member 62 can be an insulator attached to the tower orpole 60, and can be in a horizontal line post configuration as shown, orcan have other configurations such as a suspension configuration wherethe upper end of the member is mounted to pole 60, or a bracedconfiguration. In other embodiments, other suitable clamps can beattached to the member 62.

In addition to wind loads on electrical transmission lines, cables orconductors 18, another possible loading condition can be short circuitloading. This can occur when there is a line fault and the current maychange from a normal value of about 1,000 amps to a short circuit valueof 25,000 amps or more. Circuit breakers at the sub-station will reactquickly, in about ten cycles or a time span of 0.10 seconds. In abundled circuit, the phase conductors 18 will be electromagneticallyattracted to each other. In a twin bundle, two conductors 18 will startto move toward the middle of the bundle. In a triple bundle, threeconductors 18 will start to move. In a quad bundle, four conductors 18will start to move. If the spacer devices 10 are oversized, for example,30 to 32 inches instead of the pre-existing standard of 18 inches, theforce of the attraction between the conductors 18 is much less in the 30to 32 inch spaced bundle than for the 18 inch bundle due to theincreased spacing or distance apart. Since each bundle is a dynamicsystem having mass and stiffness, the motion is governed by Newton'slaws of motion, and is not instantaneous, and will be determined by thenatural modes of vibration. So, while the short-circuit current isinstantaneous, and the relay operation occurs within a 0.1 second timeframe, the force F moving the conductors 18 towards each other is animpulse in time over a time period of 0.1 second.

The use of oversized spacer devices 10 of 30 to 32 inches has manydesired benefits which include, (i) increase the power delivery capacityof the transmission line over long distances, (ii) strengthen theability of the bundle to resist forces F caused by short circuits, (iii)increase the wind speed at which galloping may occur, and (iv) preventsub-conductor oscillation in large diameter sub-conductors.

Referring to FIGS. 14-16, spreading tool or device 35 can be used forspreading conductors 18 apart from each other and maintaining a fixedspread distance for the attachment of a spacer device 10. The spreadingtool 35 can have first 36 a and second 36 b spreading aims withrespective hubs 39 a and 39 b at their proximal ends. The spreading arms36 a and 36 b can be rotatably or pivotably connected together at hubs39 a and 39 b along a pivot point or axis 38 by bolt 20, nut 22 andwashers 24. The spreading arms 36 a and 36 b can have a constructionsimilar to that of spacer device 10, in that the arms 36 a and 36 b canhave column lengths 12 a, thickened portions 16, and end portions 16 bextending along longitudinal axes 48. Clamps 14 can be secured to thedistal ends of the arms 36 a and 36 b at end portions 16 b. Thedimensions of these features can be similar to those previouslydescribed. In the embodiment depicted, each arm 36 a and 36 b can havetwo column lengths 12 a that are separated from each other by athickened portion 16. A handle 40 having a knob 42 can also be rotatablyor pivotably connected along pivot point or axis 38 to the spreadingarms 36 a and 36 b. The handle 40 has a hub 41 which can be rotatablysecured to hubs 39 a and 39 b by the bolt 20, nut 22 and washers 24.Referring to FIG. 16, hubs 39 a and 39 b can each have a notch 46 a and46 b forming a mechanical stop 50 a and 50 b (FIGS. 17 and 18) which caninteract to permit rotation of the arms 36 a and 36 b relative to eachother between an acute angle θ₁, and a reflex angle θ₂ that is justslightly beyond 180° by a few degrees, as seen in FIGS. 14 and 15. Themechanical stops 50 a and 50 b can have first stop surfaces 52 a and 52b, which can engage each other when the arms 36 a and 36 b are at angleθ₁, to prevent further rotation in that direction, and can also havesecond stop surfaces 54 a and 54 b, which can engage each other when thearms 36 a and 36 b are at angle θ₂ to prevent further rotation in thatdirection.

One use of the spreading tool 35 can be for installing spacer devices 10that space conductors 18 about 30 to 32 inches apart from each other ina bundle having conductors 18 that are currently spaced only 18 inchesapart. Referring to FIG. 14, the clamps 14 of the spreading tool 35 canbe tightened in a rigid or fixed position relative to arms 36 a and 36b, and positioned over or around the conductors 18 in a loose manner.For example, the jaws 13 can have about a ¼ gap clearance around theconductors 18 to allow for rotation of the conductors 18 within clamps14. Clearance can also allow easy insertion of the conductors 18 intothe clamps 14. The length of each arm 36 a and 36 b can be sized suchthat when the spreading tool 35 is held by handle 40, the arms 36 a and36 b can hang downward by gravity and are at angle θ₁ by the nature ofmechanical stops 50 a and 50 b. The distance D₁, between the clamps 14when arms 36 a and 36 b are at angle θ₁ can be about 18 inches to matchthe 18 inch distance between the longitudinal axes 19 of the conductors18, thereby allowing quick and easy engagement of the jaw portions 13 aof the clamps 14 from above by a user on a helicopter. In someembodiments the angle θ₁ can be about 60°. The user then can pushdownwardly on the handle 40 with a force or load L which pivots the arms36 a and 36 b about axis 38 relative to each other while moving the axis38 downwardly or toward the axis 44 extending between both conductors 18from axes 19. This moves the clamps 14 and the conductors 18 outwardlyrelative to each other in the direction of arrows 56, until themechanical stops 50 a and 50 b prevent further rotation of the arms 36 aand 36 b at the reflex angle θ₂, where the axis 38 of hubs 39 a and 39 bare at a position offset, past or below axis 44 by a distance h, forexample, ⅛ to ¼ inches (FIG. 15). As the arms 36 a and 36 b pivot,clamps 14 can rotate relative to the conductors 18 due to the loosemanner in which the clamps 14 are positioned around the conductors 18.In some embodiments, the angle θ₂ can be about 182° to 185°. In thisposition, the forces F pushing the conductors 18 towards each other lockthe arms 36 a and 36 b in place, whereby the distance D₂ between the jawportions 13 a of the clamps 14 and the conductors 18 can be about 30 to32 inches. A spacer device 10 for spacing conductors 18 a distance D₂ ofabout 30 to 32 inches can now be installed to achieve the benefitspreviously mentioned. Once the spacer device 10 is installed, thespreading tool 35 can be removed by pulling on the handle 40 todisengage the arms 36 a and 36 b from the conductors 18. In somesituations, the handle 40 can be rotated about axis 38 to the oppositeside whereby the arms 36 a and 36 b can be spread by pulling the handle40, and removed by pushing.

In some embodiments, the mechanical stops 50 a and 50 b, and arms 36 aand 36 b, can be configured to provide other angles θ₁ and distances D₁and D₂, as desired. The mechanical stops 50 a and 50 b can have othersuitable configurations, and can be located outside the hubs 39 a and 39b. The clamps 14 can be set to rotate relative to arms 36 a about axes14 a, if desired. Although clamps 14, and arms 36 a and 36 b having asimilar design to spacer device 10 are shown, it is understood that insome embodiments, the arms 36 a and 36 b can have other suitableconfigurations. For example, the arms 36 a and 36 b can be formed ofround, oval, square, rectangular, polygonal or complex curved tubing orsolid members, or can have an I beam cross section. In addition, aversion of the clamps 14 can be integrally formed with the arms 36 a and36 b, or the clamps 14 can be omitted, with the arms 36 a and 36 bhaving slots or openings for engaging the conductors 18. Although thespreading tool 35 is typically formed of aluminum, alternatively, othersuitable materials can be employed such as steel, wood, composites,fiberglass, etc.

Referring to FIGS. 19-21, spacer device 75 is another embodiment of thepresent invention. The spacer rod 12 can be shorter than the spacer rodin spacer device 10, and have two column lengths 12 a, a centralthickened portion 16, and two thickened end portions 16 b at oppositelongitudinal or distal ends. The column lengths 12 a and thickenedportion 16 can have similar construction, dimensions and/or ratios aspreviously described. Two clamps 14 similar to those previouslydescribed for spacer device 10, can be rotatably coupled to the spacerrod 12 at end portions 16 b about axes 21 of the end portions 16 b, andaxes 14 a of the clamps 14. The end portions 16 b can be generallytongue shaped and have flat lateral face surfaces 25 for fitting betweenthe hub portions 23 of the clamps 14. The end portions 16 b can differfrom those in spacer device 10 by each having a pair of clamp stopstructures 16 c located on opposite sides of the end portion 16 b forengaging clamp surfaces 74 of a clamp 14, and limiting rotation of theclamp 14 between the clamp stop structures 16 c. A curved or roundeddistal tip or end 16 d extending a distance X distally beyond axes 21and 14 a, can allow rotation of the clamps 14 distally around the end 16d for moving between the clamp stop structures 16 c.

Each end portion 16 b can have elongate flat surfaces or faces extendingon opposite sides of the longitudinal axis 17 of spacer rod 12 by adistance or width Y to form the clamp stop structures 16 c. The distanceor width Y can be considerably beyond or wider than the minimumthickness or diameter d_(m) of the column lengths 12 a. The flatsurfaces of the clamp stop structures 16 c can be parallel to the axis17 and orthogonal or perpendicular to faces 25. The length of the flatsurfaces forming the clamp stop structures 16 c can extend inwardly awayfrom the distal ends 16 d of spacer rod 12 and the axes 21 and 14 a by adistance X₂, which can be at least the distance X₁ to the location ofthe engaging outer opposed surfaces 74 on the clamps 14, and can beslightly greater, as shown. Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the distanceX₁ can be to the perpendicular edge or face of the head of bolt 20, ornut 22 (shown in FIG. 5). The distance X₁ extends to the location on theclamp 14 that forms a rotatable radius location that engages the clampstop structure 16 c when rotated around axis 14 a. With the axis ofrotation of the clamps 14 being about axis 21 and axis 14 a, and beingorthogonal to the longitudinal axis 17 of spacer rod 12 and thelongitudinally extending direction of the flat surfaces of the clampstop structures 16 c, rotation of the clamps 14 in the direction ofarrows 76 is stopped when outer opposed surfaces 74 aligned with axis 17engage the surfaces of the clamp stop structures 16 c. Referring to FIG.19, bolt 20 and its axis 15 can be positioned to align along a commonplane with axis 17 and the perpendicular edge or face surfaces of thehead of bolt 20 or nut 22 can engage the surfaces of the clamp stopstructures 16 c to stop rotation of the clamps 14 at a desired +/−angleA relative to the longitudinal axis 17 of the spacing rod 12, such asseen in FIG. 22. Depending upon the dimensions Y and X₂ of the clampstop structures 16 c, and the location and configuration of the engagingclamp surfaces 74, the angle A can vary, but in the embodiment shown inFIGS. 19 and 20, can be +/−110°. In other embodiments, the angle A canbe +/−120°. In some embodiments, the clamp stop structures 16 c do nothave to be parallel to axis 17 but can be angled, curved or can beprotrusions positioned at distance X₂. In addition, the outer opposedsurfaces 74 of clamps 14 that engage the clamp stop structures 16 c donot have to be the heads of bolts 20 or nuts 22, but can be surfaces ofthe jaws 13 of the clamps 14, and can include structures, bumps,protrusions, etc., extending along or from the jaws 13. The clamp stopstructures 16 c can prevent the clamps 14 from rotating into contactwith the column lengths 12 a of the spacer rod 12, which could causebending or damage thereof. Bolts 20 rotatably coupling the clamps 14 tothe spacer rod 12 about axes 14 a, can extend through corona rings ordoughnuts 70 located on opposite sides of the clamps 14 to stop orprevent corona discharge on the bolts 20, heads, threads and nuts 22.

Referring to FIG. 21, the distance B between axes 21 of the end portions16 b can often be about 12 inches or 15 inches. These sizes can allowthe clamps 14 of spacer device 75 to be secured to two sub conductors ina twin bundle. The shorter size can be for providing vertical spacing ofconductors that are vertically spaced apart, with a generally verticalorientation of the spacing rod 12, and the longer size can be forproviding a horizontal spacing of conductors that are horizontallyspaced apart, with a generally horizontal orientation of the spacing rod12. For an 18 inch spaced horizontal bundle of conductors, one or bothclamps 14 can be positioned in a rotated position such as about 60°relative to axis 17 of the spacer rod 12. This initial set up can allowthe clamp 14 to rotate about 50° in one direction and about 60°+110° inthe other direction before hitting the clamp stop structures 16 c. Suchrotation can cause rotation and twisting of the conductors to reducelift and control galloping due to wind. With regard to a 12 inch spacedvertical bundle of conductors, the clamps 14 can be initially positionedgenerally horizontally, with the spacer rod 12 being generally vertical.Operation can be similar for reducing lift and controlling galloping.

Referring to FIG. 22 in some embodiments, spacer device 75 can have aspacer rod 12 that is longer than seen in FIGS. 19 and 21, such as inspacer device 10.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described withreferences to example embodiments thereof, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may bemade therein without departing from the scope of the inventionencompassed by the appended claims.

For example, the devices described above and shown in the drawings arenot limited for use with electrical transmission lines, but can also beused for support or suspension cables, for example, towers, bridges,etc. In addition, the sizes or dimensions of the devices and theirfeatures can vary depending upon the application at hand. Although thecomponents are typically integrally cast from aluminum for weight andmanufacturing purposes, it is understood that other suitable metals andmaterials can be used, and that other configurations of the componentsand manufacturing methods can be employed.

What is claimed is:
 1. A spacer device comprising: an elongate spacingmember extending along a longitudinal axis for securing to electricaltransmission lines, and having a minimum thickness d_(m), at least onethickened portion having a thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) beingpositioned intermediate along the spacing member to form at least twocolumn lengths L_(c) separated by the at least one thickened portion,each column length L_(c) having a portion with the minimum thicknessd_(m), the thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) of the at least onethickened portion being at least two times the minimum thickness d_(m)to form at least one end support for the at least two column lengthsL_(c) such that the at least two column lengths L_(c) behave as separateEuler type columns for producing increased Euler buckling strength witha minimal increase in weight; and first and second clamps rotatablysecured to opposite ends of the spacing member for securing torespective electrical transmission lines, the spacing member includesfirst and second end portions at opposite ends to which the first andsecond clamps are rotatably secured about respective first and secondclamp rotation axes that are transverse to the longitudinal axis of thespacing member, each end portion having a pair of clamp stop structuresfor engaging clamp surfaces of a respective clamp and limiting rotationof said respective clamp between the clamp stop structures.
 2. Thespacer device of claim 1 in which the clamp stop structures compriseelongate flat surfaces parallel to and on opposite sides of thelongitudinal axis of the spacing member extending wider than the columnlengths.
 3. The spacer device of claim 2 in which the elongate flatsurfaces of the clamp stop structures of each end portion extendparallel to the longitudinal axis of the spacing member towards eachother and inward relative to the clamp rotation axes.
 4. The spacerdevice of claim 3 in which the clamp stop structures limit rotation ofthe clamps to about +/−110° relative to the longitudinal axis of thespacing member.
 5. The spacer device of claim 1 in which the thickenedportion has a thickness of T_(t) that is at least two times the minimumthickness d_(m) of the spacing member, and a length d_(t) that is atleast three times the minimum thickness d_(m).
 6. The spacer device ofclaim 1 in which the spacing member has a column length to minimumthickness L_(c)/d_(m) ratio of about 5 to 18, a thickened portionthickness to spacing member minimum thickness T_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about1.5 to 3, and a thickened portion length to spacing member minimumthickness d_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about 2 to 5 for producing increasedEuler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight.
 7. The spacerdevice of claim 1 in which the at least one thickened portion isintegrally formed on the spacing member.
 8. The spacer device of claim 1in which the at least one thickened portion is cylindrical shaped andhas a central axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the spacingmember.
 9. A spacer device comprising: an elongate spacing member havingat least one column length extending along a longitudinal axis, thespacing member having first and second end portions at opposite ends;and first and second clamps rotatably secured to respective first andsecond end portions of the spacing member for securing to respectiveelectrical transmission lines, the first and second clamps beingrotatably secured about respective first and second clamp rotation axesthat are transverse to the longitudinal axis of the spacing member, eachend portion of the spacing member having clamp stop structurescomprising elongate flat surfaces extending parallel to and on oppositesides of the longitudinal axis of the spacing member wider than the atleast one column length towards each other and inward relative to theclamp rotation axes, the clamps having opposed outer surfaces forengaging the clamp stop structures for limiting rotation of the clampsbetween the clamp stop structures to about +/−110° relative to thelongitudinal axis of the spacing member.
 10. A spacer device comprising:an elongate spacing member extending along a longitudinal axis forsecuring to electrical transmission lines, and having a minimumthickness d_(m), at least one thickened portion having a thickness T_(t)and length d_(t) being positioned intermediate along the spacing memberto form at least two column lengths L_(c) separated by the at least onethickened portion, each column length L_(c) having a portion with theminimum thickness d_(m), the thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) of the atleast one thickened portion being at least two times the minimumthickness d_(m) to form at least one end support for the at least twocolumn lengths L_(c), the spacing member having a column length tominimum thickness L_(c)/d_(m) ratio of about 5 to 18, a thickenedportion thickness to spacing member minimum thickness T_(t)/d_(m) ratioof about 1.5 to 3, and a thickened portion length to spacing memberminimum thickness d_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about 2 to 5, such that the atleast two column lengths L_(c) behave as separate Euler type columns forproducing increased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase inweight; and first and second clamps rotatably secured to opposite endsof the spacing member for securing to respective electrical transmissionlines.
 11. A spacer device comprising: an elongate spacing memberextending along a longitudinal axis for securing to electricaltransmission lines, and having a minimum thickness d_(m), at least onethickened portion having a thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) beingpositioned intermediate along the spacing member to form at least twocolumn lengths L_(c) separated by the at least one thickened portion,the at least one thickened portion being integrally formed on thespacing member, each column length L_(c) having a portion with theminimum thickness d_(m), the thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) of the atleast one thickened portion being at least two times the minimumthickness d_(m) to form at least one end support for the at least twocolumn lengths L_(c) such that the at least two column lengths L_(c)behave as separate Euler type columns for producing increased Eulerbuckling strength with a minimal increase in weight; and first andsecond clamps rotatably secured to opposite ends of the spacing memberfor securing to respective electrical transmission lines.
 12. A spacerdevice comprising: an elongate spacing member extending along alongitudinal axis for securing to electrical transmission lines, andhaving a minimum thickness d_(m), at least one thickened portion havinga thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) being positioned intermediate alongthe spacing member to form at least two column lengths L_(c) separatedby the at least one thickened portion, the at least one thickenedportion being cylindrical shaped and having a central axis orthogonal tothe longitudinal axis of the spacing member, each column length L_(c)having a portion with the minimum thickness d_(m), the thickness T_(t)and length d_(t) of the at least one thickened portion being at leasttwo times the minimum thickness d_(m) to form at least one end supportfor the at least two column lengths L_(c) such that the at least twocolumn lengths L_(c) behave as separate Euler type columns for producingincreased Euler buckling strength with a minimal increase in weight; andfirst and second clamps rotatably secured to opposite ends of thespacing member for securing to respective electrical transmission lines.13. A spacer device comprising: an elongate spacing member extendingalong a longitudinal axis for securing to electrical transmission lines,and having a minimum thickness d_(m), at least one thickened portionhaving a thickness T_(t) and length d_(t) being positioned intermediatealong the spacing member to form at least two column lengths L_(c)separated by the at least one thickened portion, each column lengthL_(c) having at least a location with the minimum thickness d_(m), thethickness T_(t) and length d_(t) of the at least one thickened portionbeing at least two times the minimum thickness d_(m) to form at leastone end support for the at least two column lengths L_(c), the spacingmember having a column length to minimum thickness L_(c)/d_(m) ratio ofabout 18 or under, a thickened portion thickness to spacing memberminimum thickness T_(t)/d_(m) ratio of about 1.5 to 3, and a thickenedportion length to spacing member minimum thickness d_(t)/d_(m) ratio ofabout 2 to 5, such that the at least two column lengths L_(c) behave asseparate Euler type columns for producing increased Euler bucklingstrength with a minimal increase in weight; and first and second clampsrotatably secured to opposite ends of the spacing member for securing torespective electrical transmission lines.